Proper Eating Habits Research Articles

Dietary habits, nutritional knowledge, and nutritional status among cardiological patients, including those with obesity and diabetes.

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death worldwide. The increase in patients with obesity and diabetes raises the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Proper eating habits and adequate nutritional knowledge play a key role in preventing and treating these conditions. This study aimed to evaluate the dietary habits, nutritional knowledge, and nutritional status of patients hospitalized in a cardiology department in Poland, including those with obesity or diabetes. The study was conducted at St. Barbara Regional Specialized Hospital No. 5 in Sosnowiec from January to June 2021, involving 301 patients, 154 women (51.2%) and 147 men (48.8%), aged 29 to 87. Participants were assessed for BMI, NRS 2002 scale, morphology, biochemistry results, blood pressure, and examined for nutritional knowledge and habits using proprietary questionnaires. A proprietary scale was used to assess eating habits. Most cardiology patients were overweight or obese, with 80% exceeding the normal weight range. No significant gender differences were noted in malnutrition risk on the NRS 2002 scale. The study found patients rarely consumed recommended amounts of vegetables, fruits, legumes, whole grains, fish, and dairy products. Only 26.2% regularly ate a second breakfast, and just 9.3% chose water with meals. However, consumption of salty snacks, energy drinks, and alcohol was low. Biochemical and blood test analysis did not show significant differences between patients with diabetes, obesity, and others. Most cardiology patients were overweight or obese, which poses a significant risk for further health complications, including cardiovascular diseases. Although patients with diabetes and/or obesity had better nutritional knowledge in some areas, this did not lead to healthier eating habits. The absence of significant differences in biochemical tests suggests that overall lifestyle and diet are crucial to cardiovascular health.

Dietary Diversity among Students of Khulna University, Bangladesh

Abstract Background: A healthy diet is a fundamental component of a healthy lifestyle, with dietary diversity being a crucial aspect of nutritious diets. Undergraduate students often exhibit inadequate dietary habits due to insufficient parental monitoring, lack of understanding of nutrition and proper eating habits, and the stress associated with academic, professional, and social obligations. Objective: This study aimed to measure the dietary diversity of the university students and to determine the factors associated with dietary diversity. Methods: This quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted with a sample of 240 students from Khulna University, Bangladesh. Dietary diversity was chosen as the dependent variable measure on the standard dietary diversity scale (DDS) of the Food and Agriculture Organization. The DDS comprises nine food group markers, with possible scores ranging 0–9. Each food group item consumed is given a score of 1, and the maximum score a respondent can achieve on any one day is 9. Independent variables included demographic and socioeconomic factors, diet patterns, and intake of main meals in the last 24 hours. The respondents were selected by a simple random sampling method and the data were gathered via a questionnaire survey. Descriptive statistics, one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), and binary logistic regression were conducted for data analysis. Results: The study assessed the prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among students, revealing that 55.8% had a sufficient dietary diversity score, while 44.2% scored poorly. Notably, students aged 21–25 years exhibited greater dietary diversity, particularly those in the third year of graduation or pursuing master’s degrees. The majority of these students hailed from urban areas (60.8%), consumed three main meals a day, and had notable snacking habits. Snacking choices varied with responses, including fast food, beverages, chocolates, biscuits, and fruits. Notably, 47.1% of students addressed their immediate hunger based on availability, whereas 33% admitted to skipping breakfast within the last 24 hours. These factors emerged as influential contributors to the prevalence of dietary diversity. Conclusion: The study revealed that nearly half of the students had poor dietary diversity, which signifies a critical problem. University administrations and policymakers are urged to consider the demographic and socioeconomic conditions of students and take necessary measures to improve their dietary patterns, ultimately enhancing overall dietary habits.

The impact of lifestyle, measured with the HLPCQ questionnaire on the prevalence of metabolic syndrome in Poland: a multicenter study

Metabolic syndrome is one of the most common health problems for people around the world. The aim of our study was to assess the prevalence of metabolic syndrome among adults without prior diagnosis of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. We also plan to assess the influence of certain lifestyle components on prevalence of metabolic syndrome. The study involved cardiovascularly healthy patients undergoing lab tests, measurements, and the HLPCQ questionnaire (The Healthy Lifestyle and Personal Control Questionnaire). The data were used to diagnose metabolic syndrome. Out of 1044 patients from 10 primary care facilities, 23.3% met the metabolic syndrome criteria, showing a strong link with increased blood pressure, cholesterol, and fasting glucose. Lower scores in the Organized physical exercise subscale of the HLPCQ questionnaire were noted in those with metabolic syndrome. Comparing the subscale of HLPCQ questionnaire, the lower results in Organized physical exercise subscale were found among the participants with metabolic syndrome, both male and females. Metabolic syndrome, a significant risk factor for cardiovascular disease, should be screened for actively, even in apparently healthy populations. Results obtained in our study from analysis of HLPCQ show that screening for metabolic syndrome should be preceded by prevention based on regular physical activity and proper eating habits.

Assessment of nutritional status and health behaviors in yoga-trained women versus exercisers.

Recreational physical activity is becoming more popular due to the increased public awareness about the beneficial effects on health status and quality of life. The aim of the study was to assess the nutritional status and health behaviors of women who regularly practice yoga as a form of physical recreation and to compare them with those who had not practiced before and had just signed up for yoga classes. A total of 143 women took part in this study. The nutritional status was assessed based on the obtained anthropometric measurements. The following indicators were calculated: Body Mass Index (BMI) and waist-to-hip ratio (WHR), determining the visceral accumulation of fat tissue. Health behaviors were assessed using a standardized five-point scale Health Behavior Inventory (HBI). There were significant differences in the value of the general health behavior index, the sten scale, and the subscale regarding proper eating habits in the study groups compared to women who had not practiced yoga before (control group). Health behaviors indicators, particularly proper eating habits, are significantly higher in women participating regularly in yoga exercises, indicating a higher awareness among yoga practitioners. It can be suggested that yoga participation as a recreational physical activity can be an appropriate option for pursuing healthy habits.

Satisfaction with Life and Health Behaviours in Pre-Seniors and Seniors: A Cross-Sectional Cohort Study

Background: Satisfaction with life is considered the best indicator of the quality of life of older people and is commonly used as an indicator of adaptation and successful aging. The objective of this study is to evaluate the quality of life and health among pre-seniors and seniors in Płock, Poland, focusing specifically on the interplay between life satisfaction and health outcomes. Methods: The study encompassed a total of 2040 individuals, categorized as pre-seniors and seniors. A diagnostic survey method was employed, utilizing a questionnaire that gathered sociodemographic data and incorporated two standardized psychometric scales: the Satisfaction with Life Scale (SWLS) and the Health Behaviours Inventory (HBI). Results: A majority of respondents demonstrated high levels of life satisfaction, with 1272 people (62.4%) scoring in the high range. In contrast, a smaller group, consisting of 299 respondents (14.7%), reported low satisfaction levels. Notably, men exhibited higher life satisfaction than women (p < 0.001). Additionally, a statistically significant but low correlation was found between the age of respondents and various aspects of the health behaviour index. This includes preventive behaviours (p < 0.001, r = 0.105), health practices (p < 0.001, r = 0.243), proper eating habits (p = 0.004, r = 0.063), and a positive mental attitude (p < 0.001, r = 0.098). These findings underline the complex interplay between age, life satisfaction, and health behaviours among the senior population. Conclusions: High life satisfaction and average to high levels of health behaviours were observed in our study, varying with gender and age. Individuals aged 61–75 reported the highest life satisfaction, whereas those aged 76–90 exhibited the most robust health behaviours. These results underscore the need for age- and gender-specific health policies and programs supporting sustainable aging, aligning with the Sustainable Development Goals. Further national research is essential to comprehensively explore these trends and support global well-being initiatives for aging populations.

텍스트 마이닝을 이용한 코로나19 전후 청소년과 식생활 관련 키워드 검색 경향 분석

This study analyzed Naver, Daum, Google, YouTube, and Twitter using TEXTOM for two years and four years as of January 18, 2020. The results are as follows. First, the total number and volume of keyword search data related to youth and diet were slightly higher after COVID-19, showing that interest increased due to COVID-19. Second, as a result of frequency analysis, ‘education’ was the highest before COVID-19, and ‘health’ was the highest after COVID-19, showing that interest in health is increasing due to the increased importance of health and immunity due to COVID-19. Third, as a result of frequency weight analysis of the top 50 keywords, ‘education’ showed the highest frequency before COVID-19, and ‘acne’ after COVID-19. Fourth, the results visualized using word cloud showed that the keywords ‘education’ before COVID-19 and ‘health’ after COVID-19 appeared the largest and boldest, showing the highest frequency and importance. As a result of the above results, we were able to use the text mining method to apply it to eating habits, and we used materials visualized as a highly readable word cloud in units such as eating problems in adolescence and balanced meal planning and selection in the home economics curriculum to improve the teaching of the class. The direction of proper eating habits education, including using it as a medium, was presented.

Medical aspects of catering for children of different ages

The problems of nutrition of children and adolescents are currently of the greatest interest to domestic and foreign researchers. Currently, the issues of early formation of proper eating habits, taste perception and the impact of nutrition on the health of children of different ages are being actively studied. Various foreign and domestic studies of the nutrition structure and nutritional status of children and adolescents point to significant shortcomings in the organization of children’s nutrition, it is worth noting that these factors influence the formation of the health of children and adolescents of various age groups. The purpose of the review is to study the features of eating behavior, in particular, the issues of snacking and catering for children of different ages.

Analyzing the Nutritional Awareness, Dietary Practices, Attitudes, and Performance of U-17 Football Players in Ethiopia

Background. Adequate nutrition knowledge is crucial for developing proper eating habits, especially among athletes, as it has a significant impact on sports performance. This underscores the consensus in sports nutrition education among professionals working with athletes. Study purpose. The study aimed to assess the nutritional knowledge, attitudes, and dietary practices of under-17 football club players in Ethiopia. Materials and methods. A descriptive survey research method was used, and standardized questionnaires were randomly distributed to 26 footballers to assess participants’ knowledge, attitudes, and dietary practices regarding nutrition. Data were analyzed using the t-test, Pearson coefficient, and one-way ANOVA (p <0.05). Reliability analysis showed a Cronbach’s alpha value of 0.83 for the scales measuring attitudes towards eating habits and nutrition knowledge (0.79 and 0.78, respectively). Results. No statistically significant differences (p >0.5) were observed in the data related to eating habits, age, or nutritional understanding. Significant variations in educational backgrounds were noted (p <0.05). Although gender and source were not recognized as correlates of nutritional knowledge, but age and education were. Conclusions. In summary, the study revealed no significant differences (p > 0.05) in nutrition knowledge scores for age, education, and source of information. However, a significant difference (p<0.05) was found between male and female athletes. Gender correlated with dietary habits, while age, education, and source of information did not. The key factor is to encourage ongoing future vision within sports organizations, nutritionists, and educational institutions to continuously refine and enhance nutrition knowledge, attitudes, and practice programs for U-17 players. It is also important to ensure sustainable relevance and effectiveness in the evolving landscape of sports and nutrition.

Exploring the connection between ego-resiliency and health behaviors: a cross-sectional study of Polish health sciences students.

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship between ego-resiliency and the intensity of health behaviors among Polish health sciences students. The study involved 483 students from health-related faculties in southern Poland, consisting of 314 women (63.7%) and 179 men (36.3%). The average age of the participants was 21.7 ± 2.5 years. To assess resiliency (ER), the Ego-Resiliency Scale (ER89-R12) by Block and Kremen was used in its Polish adaptation. The intensity of health behaviors was examined using the Health Behavior Inventory (HBI) developed by Z. Juczyński. The results revealed a positive correlation between the intensity of health behaviors and ER (r = 0.43, p < 0.001), both for the general factor and its categories (positive mental attitude, proper eating habits, preventive actions, and prohealth activities). Students with a high level of health behaviors exhibited significantly higher ER (M = 38.95, SD = 5.15) compared to those with average (M = 35.93, SD = 5.03) and low (M = 32.97, SD = 5.12) HBI levels. Among the HBI categories, Positive Mental Attitude showed the strongest correlation with both general ER and its factors: optimal regulation (OR) and openness to life experiences (OL). Furthermore, the correlation was found to be stronger with the OR and weaker with OL. Higher ER in students is correlated with a greater frequency of health behaviors. Nurturing the development of ER may contribute to the maintenance of prohealth practices despite life difficulties and temporary loss of motivation. This, in turn, promotes the regularity of health behaviors, which is crucial for their positive impact on overall health.

The Magnitude and Related Risk Factors of Obesity and Overweight among Medical Students at Shendi University, Sudan

Background: Today, obesity is a serious health issue that is growing around the world. Almost 500 million adults worldwide were obese, and 1.5 billion were overweight, according to a World Health Organization (WHO) report. This number is estimated to increase in the years to come. Objective: To evaluate the prevalence of obesity and overweight among medical students at the Shendi University College of Medicine and its relationship to demographic parameters. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional descriptive-analytic study was conducted on medical students of the faculty of medicine at Shendi University, and a sample of students was systematically randomly collected. Data was collected by using an open and closed questionnaire. Direct measurement of weight and height, then the calculation of BMI. Also, direct measurement of waist and hip, then the calculation of WHR. Results: 43% of the students were classified as average. 26% of people were overweight, and 21% were obese. In other words, the study discovered that women are more likely than men to be overweight or obese. According to the findings, those who live in urban areas gain weight noticeably more than people who live in rural areas. Regarding the behavioral aspect, there was a substantial relationship between those with a positive family history of obesity and those who are of normal weight, as well as a positive relationship between those who ate more than two meals each day. Conclusions: University students frequently engage in risky health behaviors, so it's important to educate them on how to prevent them, especially when it comes to topics like exercise and nutrition. For the sake of their health and the health of future generations, prospective healthcare professionals must adopt the proper eating habits and a healthy lifestyle. We advise modifying BMI to account for fat distribution and coexisting diseases to gain a thorough understanding of the current situation.

Relationship between Diet Quality and Socioeconomic and Health-Related Factors in Adolescents by Gender.

Adolescence is a key period for consolidating heathy lifestyles and proper eating habits that can last into adulthood. To analyze the diet quality of Spanish adolescents and its association with socioeconomic factors and health behaviors by gender, a cross-sectional study was conducted using data from the DESKcohort project, consisting of a biannual panel survey on health, health behaviors, and associated determinants, collected in secondary education centers. The study population consisted of 7319 students aged 12 to 18 years. Data were collected from October 2019 to March 2020. The dependent variable was diet quality score according to the Spanish adaptation of the Healthy Eating Index (S-HEI). The independent variables included were socioeconomic factors and health behaviors. We conducted linear regression separately by gender. Diet quality score was significantly higher for girls than for boys (68 and 65, respectively, p < 0.001). For both genders, poorer diet quality was associated with a low level of physical activity [-0.9 (95% CI = -1.6:-0.2) in boys, -1.2 (95% CI = -1.9:-0.4) in girls], alcohol use [-2.5 (95% CI = -3.7:-1.3) in boys, -1.0 (95% CI = -1.9:0.0) in girls], poor self-perceived health [-1.1 (95% CI = -2.4:0.2) in boys, -3.5 (95% CI = -4.6:-2.4) in girls], and having attended Intermediate Level Training Cycles [-2.9 (95% CI = -4.3:-1.5) in boys, -1.9 (95% CI = -3.5:-0.3) in girls]. In girls, poorer diet quality also was associated with low mood [-1.1 (95% CI = -1.9:-0.3)]. The variance was 9% in boys and 12% in girls. Our results highlight the need to consider socioeconomic and health-related factors, as well as gender, when conducting interventions to promote healthy eating among adolescents.

The Impact of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Health Behaviours of Pregnant Women in Poland: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Health behaviours of pregnant women should promote an optimal course of pregnancy and maternal health. The purpose of this study was to assess the impact of COVID-19 pandemic on pregnant women's health behaviours (proper eating habits with a particular focus on the type of food consumed; preventive behaviours in terms of compliance with health recommendations and obtaining information on health and disease; healthy practices-daily habits in terms of sleep, rest and physical activity; as well as positive mental attitudes-avoiding strong emotions, stress, and depressing situations, determined by the frequency of each behaviour reported by the respondents). The study included women at different stages of pregnancy and women who were pregnant during the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 355 women participated in the study. The study used a proprietary questionnaire and the Health Behaviour Inventory (HBI). The overall health behaviour score during the pandemic was higher (85.87) than the pre-pandemic score (82.16). There was a statistically significant difference between the total pre-pandemic and during-pandemic HBI scores. Additionally, there was an increase in the total score in each of the health behaviour domains during the pandemic period compared to the pre-pandemic results. During the COVID-19 pandemic, pregnant women presented a statistically significantly higher rate of health behaviours, as measured with the HBI, indicating that respondents were more likely to engage in health-promoting behaviours. The study has shown a positive change in pregnant women's eating habits, which can potentially affect the health of the population in the future.

Eating Habits and School Performance in Students of Primary Education

Background: Maintaining a proper diet is crucial, particularly for children undergoing the critical phases of growth and development. Objective: This study aims to investigate the association between eating habits and academic performance among students in Primary Education. Methods: The research adopts a descriptive-correlational approach with a cross-sectional design, utilizing a sample comprising 427 students (242 boys and 185 girls) in the sixth year of Primary Education. The instrument used is a self-developed ad hoc questionnaire, encompassing dietary habits, food choices at school and home throughout a typical week (including breakfast, lunch, snack, and dinner), and academic performance assessed by the student’s tutor. Results: Significant associations were observed between academic performance and the consumption of pasta, fruit, and meat (P=0.00), as well as pastries and fish (P&lt;0.05). Students with a preference for these foods tend to exhibit higher academic performance. However, no significant correlations were identified for “vegetables”, and there were no discernible associations between food groups and academic performance based on gender or body mass index (BMI). Conclusion: Individuals displaying proper eating habits, such as consuming five daily meals, avoiding food wastage, and incorporating pasta, fruit, and meat into their diet, demonstrate commendable academic performance.

Health behaviors of nursing staff in the use of preventive programs, coping with stress and the impact of additional workload

Introduction Health behaviors play an important role in preserving, maintaining and improving health. These are actions and behaviors selected by humans, which, based on specific knowledge, remain in a significant relationship with health. Nursing staff, due to their knowledge, skills and duties enshrined in the Act on the Professions of Nurses and Midwives, through their own model of behavior and actions, should encourage appropriate health attitudes. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to learn about selected health behaviors in the use of preventive programs, coping with stress and the impact of additional workload among the nursing staff employed at the Railway Hospital in Wilkowice. Material and methods: The research was carried out using the diagnostic survey method and a standardized scale - Juczyński's Health Behavior Inventory on a group of 100 nurses. Results: The group of surveyed nurses was characterized by the highest health behaviors in terms of positive mental attitude and proper eating habits, lower in terms of preventive behaviors and health practices. Only 63% of the respondents used prevention programmes. In addition, it was observed that abnormal health behaviors were more common among nurses working additionally in another health care facility. Conclusions: The surveyed nurses used preventive programs on average and manifested health practices at an average level, which was influenced by the burden of additional work. They chose various ways of coping with stress, which were not always pro-health, therefore postgraduate education should emphasize the development of these skills, and nurses should be able to use psychologists employed in hospitals.

Health behaviors of nurses in terms of nutrition and physical activity

Introduction An important direct factor determining human health are health behaviors that are part of the lifestyle. Health behaviors are conscious actions taken to strengthen and increase the potential of one's own health. Nurses, due to their education and interdisciplinary competences, should be characterized by a high level of health awareness and motivation. Aim of the study The aim of the study was to analyze selected health behaviors among the nursing staff employed at the Railway Hospital in Wilkowice in terms of assessing the possibility of increasing preventive measures. Material and methods: The research was carried out using the diagnostic survey method and a standardized scale - Juczyński's Health Behavior Inventory on a group of 100 nurses. Results: The group of surveyed nurses was characterized by the highest health behaviors in terms of positive mental attitude and proper eating habits, lower in terms of preventive behaviors and health practices. There were also many anti-health behaviors, such as: non-compliance with the principles of healthy eating, insufficient physical activity. Conclusions: Measures should be taken to prevent and promote health among nurses.

Evaluation of Health Pattern and Stress Levels among Patients Undergoing Alcohol Addiction Treatment-A Cross Sectional Study.

Alcohol consumption is linked to over 200 diseases and injuries. It is also classified as a risk factor for several types of neoplasms as well as infectious diseases (i.e., HIV and tuberculosis). In 2019, among people aged 25 to 49, alcohol use was the leading risk factor for attributable burden of disease. There are many factors that affect alcohol drinking patterns such as social and economic status, social norms, cultural customs, availability of alcohol, etc. Stress also plays a significant role in the process of developing alcohol addiction. The aim of our study was to examine health patterns and stress levels among patients undergoing alcohol addiction treatment. The study sample consisted of 104 patients who were treated in a hospital ward due to alcohol dependence. Three standardized questionnaire tools were used to measure the sense of coherence and the level of stress among those patients. The main results suggest that the level of perceived stress correlated negatively with all dimensions of sense of coherence and all indicators of health behaviors, however, age was positively correlated with positive mental attitude, proper eating habits, and health behaviors. In conclusion, it is worth noting that developing patterns for positive health behaviors will make it possible to avoid alcohol dependence or reinforce the treatment results if alcohol dependence syndrome occurs.

How Do Minerals, Vitamins, and Intestinal Microbiota Affect the Development and Progression of Heart Disease in Adult and Pediatric Patients?

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of death worldwide, far ahead of cancer. Epidemiological data emphasize the participation of many risk factors that increase the incidence of CVDs, including genetic factors, age, and sex, but also lifestyle, mainly nutritional irregularities and, connected with them, overweight and obesity, as well as metabolic diseases. Despite the importance of cardiovascular problems in the whole society, the principles of prevention of CVDs are not widely disseminated, especially among the youngest. As a result, nutritional neglect, growing from childhood and adolescence, translates into the occurrence of numerous disease entities, including CVDs, in adult life. This review aimed to draw attention to the role of selected minerals and vitamins in health and the development and progression of CVDs in adults and children. Particular attention was paid to the effects of deficiency and toxicity of the analyzed compounds in the context of the cardiovascular system and to the role of intestinal microorganisms, which by interacting with nutrients, may contribute to the development of cardiovascular disorders. We hope this article will draw the attention of society and the medical community to emphasize promoting healthy eating and proper eating habits in children and adults, translating into increased awareness and a reduced risk of CVD.

Recent advances and opportunities related to the use of bee products in food processing.

Nowadays, natural foods that can provide positive health effects are gaining more and more popularity. Bees and the products they produce are our common natural heritage that should be developed. In the article, we presented the characteristics of bee products and their use in industry. We described the development and importance of beekeeping in the modern world. Due to their high nutritional value and therapeutic properties, bee products are of great interest and their consumption is constantly growing. The basis for the use of bee products in human nutrition is their properties and unique chemical composition. The conducted research and opinions confirm the beneficial effect of bee products on health. The current consumer awareness of the positive impact of food having a pro-health effect on health and well-being affects the increase in interest and demand for this type of food among various social groups. Enriching the daily diet with bee products may support the functioning of the organism. New technologies have appeared on the market to improve the process of obtaining bee products. The use of bee products plays a large role in many industries; moreover, the consumption of bee products and promotion of their medicinal properties are very important in shaping proper eating habits.

Young Shoots of Red Beet and the Root at Full Maturity Inhibit Proliferation and Induce Apoptosis in Breast Cancer Cell Lines.

Modern medicine is struggling with the problem of fully effective treatment of neoplastic diseases despite deploying innovative chemotherapeutic agents. Therefore, undertaking cancer-prevention measures, such as proper eating habits, should be strongly recommended. The present research aimed to compare the effects of juice from young shoots of beetroot compared to juice from root at full maturity on human breast cancer and normal cells. The juice from young shoots, both in the native and digested form, was most often a significantly stronger inhibitor of the proliferation of both analyzed breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231), compared to the native and digested juice from red beetroot. Regardless of juice type, a significantly greater reduction was most often shown in the proliferation of estrogen-dependent cells (MCF-7 line) than of estrogen-independent cells (MDA-MB-231 line). All analyzed types of beetroot juice and, in particular, the ones from young shoots and the root subjected to digestion and absorption, exerted an antiproliferative and apoptotic effect (pinpointing the internal apoptosis pathway) on the cells of both cancer lines studied. There is a need to continue the research to comprehensively investigate the factors responsible for both these effects.

Revisiting the Diabetes Crisis in Korea: Call for Urgent Action

The prevalence of diabetes in Korea is increasing and presents significant challenges to the healthcare system, the economy, and society. Some experts had predicted that the number of patients with diabetes would exceed 6 million by 2050, but this number has been reached three decades earlier than expected in Korea. This tremendous increase is due to accumulation of diabetic patients as the population ages and obesity prevalence rapidly increases. According to the Diabetes Fact Sheet of 2022, the percentage of people with diabetes was more than 30% in the population older than 65 years. To address these challenges, preemptive strategies such as rigorous screening and risk stratifications are necessary. The Korean Diabetes Association has lowered the age for diabetes screening from 45 to 35 years. In support of this, young-onset diabetes is more threatening than that in older people due to higher glucose level at diagnosis, greater obesity, and poor adherence. To prevent diabetes, appropriate education and publicity programs for proper eating habits and increased physical activity are needed. Awareness must be increased on the importance of proper care in young-onset diabetes. In conclusion, the increase in diabetes in Korea is a significant health issue that requires urgent attention.